Oh, let me tell you about chicken stuffed peppers! They’re like little edible bowls bursting with flavor, and honestly, they’re one of my favorite go-to recipes for a cozy weeknight dinner. This dish is incredibly simple and delicious, making it perfect for even the busiest of evenings. I remember the first time I made these; I was trying to impress some friends, and they devoured every last bite! Trust me, once you try my chicken stuffed peppers, you’ll be hooked too. Plus, they’re versatile enough to adapt to whatever you have in your kitchen, so let’s dive in!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these scrumptious chicken stuffed peppers. I’ve kept it simple, so you won’t have to hunt for any fancy ingredients!
- 4 bell peppers (any color you like—red, yellow, green, or orange work great!)
- 1 pound ground chicken (make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor)
- 1 cup cooked rice (leftover rice works perfectly here)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh, just be sure to drain if canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using cheddar, but feel free to mix it up)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for that aromatic kick)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (adds a nice depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
Make sure you gather everything before you start cooking. It makes the process so much smoother, and you won’t find yourself running around looking for ingredients mid-recipe!
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it helps your chicken stuffed peppers cook evenly and get that lovely golden cheese on top. So, go ahead and turn on that oven while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. It’ll save you some time later!
Prepare the Bell Peppers
Now, let’s get those bell peppers ready! Start by cutting the tops off each pepper—just slice about an inch down from the stem. Then, gently pull out the seeds and the white inner membranes. I like to use a small paring knife to help with this part. Make sure to rinse them under cold water to get rid of any leftover seeds. You want them clean and ready to be stuffed!
Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, half of the shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. I usually use my hands for this—it’s the easiest way to make sure everything is evenly mixed! Just don’t forget to wash your hands afterward!
Stuff the Peppers
Now comes the fun part—stuffing the peppers! Take your filling and spoon it into each pepper, packing it down gently. You don’t want to overstuff them, as they’ll expand a bit while baking. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If they seem wobbly, you can slice a tiny bit off the bottom to create a flat surface. This will help them stand tall and proud!
Baking the Peppers
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and help the chicken cook through. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil (watch out for the steam!) and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each pepper. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The smell will be absolutely incredible, so get ready to enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delightful chicken stuffed peppers! Keep in mind that the nutrition facts can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are just estimates:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per stuffed pepper
- Fat: About 15g
- Saturated Fat: Around 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 30g
- Fiber: About 3g
- Protein: Approximately 25g
- Sodium: Around 600mg
- Sugar: About 5g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 70mg
So, you can enjoy these peppers knowing they’re packed with protein and flavor while being relatively balanced. They’re perfect for a wholesome meal that won’t weigh you down! Now, let’s keep cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious stuffed peppers in the oven before you know it!
- Easy to make: The steps are straightforward, perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time.
- Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein from the ground chicken and filled with veggies, they’re a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Full of flavor: The combination of cheese, spices, and tomatoes creates a mouthwatering filling that your taste buds will love.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile recipe.
- Great for leftovers: These stuffed peppers keep well in the fridge, making them perfect for meal prep or quick lunches!
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, everyone will enjoy this colorful and tasty dish.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to make sure your chicken stuffed peppers turn out perfect every time!
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. It’ll give your peppers a nice kick!
- Mix and match: Don’t feel tied down to just ground chicken. You can use ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking for a different flavor or to cater to dietary preferences.
- Cheese, please: Experiment with different types of cheese for the filling or topping. Feta can add a tangy twist, or mozzarella for a super gooey texture!
- Add veggies: Feel free to sneak in some chopped onions, zucchini, or corn into the filling for extra texture and flavor. It’s a great way to pack in more nutrients!
- Herb it up: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil can elevate the dish. Toss some into the filling for a fresh burst of flavor!
- Make it a meal: Serve your stuffed peppers on a bed of greens, quinoa, or a light salad. It adds a lovely crunch and rounds out the meal beautifully.
- Check doneness: If you’re unsure if your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the center. Better safe than sorry!
These little tips will help you customize your chicken stuffed peppers to your liking and ensure they come out delicious every time. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your chicken stuffed peppers, I’ve got you covered! Here are some fun ideas to customize this dish and make it your own:
- Veggie-packed: Swap in some chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even grated carrots into the filling. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in more veggies while keeping everything delicious!
- Different meats: Feeling adventurous? Try using ground turkey or beef instead of chicken. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture to your stuffed peppers!
- Cheesy goodness: Switch up the cheese! Feta adds a tangy punch, or go for pepper jack for a spicy twist. You can even mix several types of cheese for a melty masterpiece!
- Rice alternatives: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a healthier option. It’ll keep the filling light and fluffy!
- Herb and spice variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding cumin, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost that’ll make your taste buds dance!
- Sweet and savory: Toss in some black beans or corn for a sweet crunch. You can also add a touch of barbecue sauce to the filling for a fun twist on flavor!
- International flair: Give your peppers a global spin! Try adding some curry powder for an Indian vibe, or taco seasoning for a Mexican flair. The possibilities are endless!
These variations will keep your chicken stuffed peppers exciting and fresh every time you make them. So, go ahead and unleash your creativity in the kitchen! Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious chicken stuffed peppers fresh for later! If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s how to store them properly:
- Storing: Once your stuffed peppers have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure they’re sealed tight to maintain that tasty flavor!
- Freezing: If you want to save them for a longer time, you can freeze the stuffed peppers! Just wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Now, onto reheating! You want those peppers to taste as good as they did when they were fresh:
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. This helps to keep them moist. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If you want to get that cheese nice and melty again, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes!
- Microwave method: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them! Place a stuffed pepper on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking for doneness. Just be careful, as they can get hot quickly!
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken stuffed peppers even after they’ve been made. Nothing like a quick, tasty meal ready to go!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious chicken stuffed peppers ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them to make your meal truly special. These peppers are hearty and flavorful on their own, but with the right sides, you can elevate your dining experience even more!
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement. The freshness will balance the richness of the stuffed peppers beautifully!
- Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love garlic bread? It’s crispy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up any delicious juices left on your plate. Plus, it adds a delightful crunch!
- Quinoa or Rice: Serve some fluffy quinoa or a side of seasoned rice to soak up the flavors. You can cook it in chicken broth for an extra boost of taste!
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables—think zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers—can add a colorful and nutritious touch to your meal. Just toss them with olive oil and your favorite herbs, and roast until tender!
- Mexican Corn Salad: This sweet and creamy corn salad with lime and cilantro is a fun twist that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the stuffed peppers. It’s bright and refreshing!
- Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of plain yogurt or a tangy tzatziki sauce can add a cool contrast to the warm peppers. It’s a great way to balance out the spices!
These sides not only round out your meal but also make it more visually appealing. Enjoy your chicken stuffed peppers with one or two of these options, and you’ve got a fantastic dinner that’s sure to impress!
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Chicken Stuffed Peppers: 7 Simple Steps for Beginners
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for chicken stuffed peppers that anyone can make.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix ground chicken, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, half of the cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use any color of bell pepper you like.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the stuffing.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken stuffed peppers, stuffed peppers recipe, easy dinner recipe